Secure golf club holder device

ABSTRACT

A golf club holder device is described and comprises a club holder with a body having a quasi-spherical shape with a recessed internal seat. The device includes an opening formed in a front of the body, the opening configured to receive a diameter of a shaft of a golf club therethrough. The device has a through hole formed in the body to the seat, the through hole being configured to recess a portion of a handgrip of a golf club within the club holder while suspending a remaining length of the golf club from the body.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims priority to co-pendingU.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/962,653, filed Dec. 8, 2010, whichin turn is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/586,177, filed Sep. 18, 2009, the contents ofwhich are all incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

I. Field

The present invention relates to golf club holders.

II. Background

When golfing, it common for the golfer to extract one or more clubs fromthe golf bag to play the golf game. The golfer may be undecided aboutwhich club to use during the game and places a club back in the bag onlyto grab the club again until a decision is made. Golfers may want tohave one or more clubs readily accessible for rapid retrieval and toeliminate hunting for a frequently used club nestled among many clubs aswell as reduce crowding in the golf bag while golfing.

The putter is the only club to be used at each hole, with the “wedges”being second most used in a round. Thus, for an 18 hole golf game, theputter is used 18 times. Although, the putter is most frequently used,the putter can be the most challenging to quickly retrieve from the golfbag as the putter is generally recessed lower in the bag then otherclubs.

The putter size or length is specific to the user and the user's height.In many instances, the putter may be shorter (e.g., 33 inches or less)than the golf bag height (e.g., 35 inches). As a consequence, the putteris not easily accessible within the golf bag. Access to a golfer'sputter becomes even more problematic for short golfers, children andmidgets, as the length of putters becomes shorter and shorter and thuslowering the putter even further in the golf bag.

Some golfers, when using a golf cart to travel from one hole to another,wedge the putter in the cart's apparatus used to secure a golf bag tothe golf cart. However, this expedient only leads to lost putters as theputter dislodges from impact forces exerted on the cart traveling overand engaging the hilly and bumpy golf course terrain. Other putters,like the “belly” length and the “broom stick” length have longer lengthsthan traditional putters to accommodate golfers with bad backs or otherphysical ailments or limitations.

Golf holders, such as for putters, are available to hold a putter orclub outside of the golf bag. However, many of these golf holders arenot very secure. Other golf holders may hold the club shaft withfriction which can over time affect such shaft after repeated removaland insertion in the golf holder.

Some golf club holders also hold the club head upright. Thus, retrievingthe club when held in the holder is cumbersome as the handgrip is notoriented for rapid grabbing by the user. This arrangement is problematicas the head of the putter may affect the location of the other clubswith a large head mass (with or without head covers). For example, someclub heads that have an enlarged head mass with an associated head covermay be the size of a softball.

Thus, the present invention provides a golf club holder deviceconfigured and arranged to secure a club in the device while eliminatingdamage to the shaft of the club when inserting the club in the holder.The golf club holder device of the present invention is configured toorient the handgrip upright so that the putter or club can be quicklygrabbed and removed from the device.

SUMMARY

The aforementioned problems, and other problems, are reduced, accordingto exemplary embodiments, by the golf club holder device.

In an exemplary embodiment, a golf club holder device is provided. Thegolf club holder device comprises a club holder having a body with aquasi-spherical shape and a recessed internal seat. The device includesan opening formed in a front of the body, the opening configured toreceive a diameter of a shaft of a golf club therethrough. The devicehas a through hole formed in the body to the seat, the through holebeing configured to recess a portion of a handgrip of a golf club withinthe club holder while suspending a remaining length of the golf clubfrom the body.

In the exemplary embodiments, the golf club holder device includes amanual locking or self-locking configuration.

In the exemplary embodiments, the golf club holder device accommodates avariety of shaft diameters and secures the golf club in the holder usingthe handgrip.

In one of the exemplary embodiments, the golf club holder device mayinclude one or more club holders for supporting multiple clubssimultaneously.

Other systems, methods, and/or products according to embodiments will beor become apparent to one with skill in the art upon review of thefollowing drawings, and further description. It is intended that allsuch additional systems, methods, and/or products be included withinthis description, be within the scope of the present invention, and beprotected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The exemplary embodiments, objects, uses, advantages, and novel featuresare more clearly understood by reference to the following descriptiontaken in connection with the accompanying figures wherein:

FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a secure golf club holderdevice in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 1B illustrates a front view of the secure golf club holder deviceof FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1C illustrates a top view of the secure golf club holder device ofFIG. 1A;

FIG. 1D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf clubholder device along the plane 1D-1D of FIG. 1C;

FIG. 1E illustrates the cross-sectional view of the secure golf clubholder device of FIG. 1D with a golf club being inserted through theopening in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 1F illustrates the cross-sectional view of the secure golf clubholder device of FIG. 1D with a golf club seated in the device inaccordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of another secure golf clubholder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf clubholder device along the plane 2B-2B of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C illustrates a side view of the secure golf club holder device ofFIG. 2A;

FIG. 2D illustrates the perspective view of FIG. 2A with a strapinstalled in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of still yet another secure golfclub holder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of the secure golf club holder device ofFIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C illustrates a front view of the secure golf club holder deviceof FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3D illustrates a top view of the secure golf club holder device ofFIG. 3A;

FIG. 3E illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf clubholder device along the plane 3E-3E of FIG. 3C;

FIG. 3F illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf clubholder device along the plane 3F-3F of FIG. 3C;

FIG. 4A illustrates an exploded view of yet another secure golf clubholder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 4B illustrates a front view of the secure golf club holder deviceof FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C illustrates a rear view of the secure golf club holder device ofFIG. 4A;

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of a secure golf club holdersystem in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 5B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf clubholder device along the plane 5B-5B of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf clubholder system in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of a golf club holder in an openstate in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of a golf club holder in a closedstate in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention; and

FIG. 6C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf clubholder along the plane 6B-6B of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of yet another secure golf clubholder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 7B illustrates a top view of the secure golf club holder device ofFIG. 7A;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of yet another secure golf clubholder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 9A illustrates a perspective view of yet another secure golf clubholder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 9B illustrates a top view of the yet another secure golf clubholder device of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 10A illustrates a top view of yet another secure golf club holderdevice in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 10B illustrates a rear perspective view of the yet another securegolf club holder device of FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a golf bag with a secure golfclub holder attached thereto in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a golf bag with a secure golfclub holder attached thereto in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 13A illustrates a perspective view of a golf club holder device,with an alternate embodiment of the attachment mechanism (with a portionremoved) in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 13B illustrates side cross-sectional view of the golf club holderdevice of FIG. 13A with a strap installed in the attachment mechanism inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 14A illustrates a front cross section view of a golf club holderdevice, with an alternate embodiment of an attachment mechanism and witha strap installed, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 14B illustrates a partial rear view of the attachment mechanism inaccordance with the embodiment of FIG. 14A; and

FIG. 15 illustrates a front cross-sectional view of yet another golfclub holder device in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

DESCRIPTION

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example,instance, or illustration.” Any configuration or design described hereinas “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred oradvantageous over other configurations or designs. Furthermore, use ofthe words “present invention” is used herein to convey only some of theembodiments of the invention. For example, the word “present invention”would also include alternative embodiments and equivalent systems andcomponents that one of ordinary skill in the art understands. An exampleis that the materials used for the exemplary embodiments may be made outof man-made materials, natural materials, and combinations thereof. Afurther example is that the apparatus or components of the apparatus maybe manufactured by machine(s), human(s) and combinations thereof.

Some of the embodiments of the invention now will be described morefully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in whichexemplary embodiments are shown. This invention may, however, beembodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limitedto the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided sothat this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully conveythe scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art.Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention,as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass bothstructural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it isintended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalentsas well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elementsdeveloped that perform the same function, regardless of structure).

According to some exemplary embodiments, a golf club holder (GCH) deviceis provided. The GCH device includes a club holder having an exteriorperimeter surface configured to simulate a golf ball. A front opening ofthe club holder is configured to receive a club shaft therethrough. Agolf club, generally, has a head at one end of the club shaft(hereinafter referred to as a “first club end”) and a handgrip at anopposite end (hereinafter referred to as a “handgrip end”). Aconventional club shaft is tapered with the handgrip end having thelarger diameter and the first end nearest the club head having thesmaller diameter. The GCH device is configured to recess a portion ofthe handgrip within the club holder while suspending the remaininglength of the golf club from the device. The shaft may be made of alightweight metal, graphite, or other metal composites.

The GCH device, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention, includes an attachment mechanism configured to attachto a golf club bag, person, or other structures. The attachmentmechanism may include a clip, a snap, and a slot for attachment of aband, strap or other fastening members.

FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C illustrate perspective, front and top views of a GCHdevice 100 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention. The GCH device 100 includes an attachment mechanism 110configured to attach to a golf club bag, person, or other structures.The GCH device 100 further includes a club holder 130 coupled to orintegrated with the attachment mechanism 110.

In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 130 includes a body 132configured to simulate a golf ball. The body 132 is quasi-sphericallyshaped structure with a plurality of indentions or dimples 134 formed inthe exterior perimeter surface 142 of the body 132.

The quasi-spherically shaped of the body 132 includes a sphericalstructure having a truncated upper portion 136A and a truncated bottomportion 136B. Additionally, a rear portion of the spherical structuremay not track a generally spherical shape as a portion of the rear sideof the spherical structure is integrated with a connection bridge 125 soas to integrate the body 132 with the attachment mechanism 110.

The body 132 has a through hole 150 formed through the truncated upperportion 136A down to and through the truncated bottom portion 136B.Furthermore, a front of the body 132 has an opening 138 configured toreceive a shaft 6 of a golf club 5 therethrough as will be described inmore detail in relation to FIG. 1E. The body 132 includes an internalseat 160 to support within the body 132, a portion of a handgrip 8 ofthe golf club 5, as best seen in FIG. 1F.

FIG. 1D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf clubholder device along the plane 1D-1D of FIG. 1C. The through hole 150includes an inner diameter (ID) which varies. At the truncated upperportion 136B, the ID is larger than the ID nearest to the truncatedbottom portion 136B. The through hole 150 of the body 132 has a firstportion 152 with a first ID, denoted as ID1, a second portion 154 with avarying second ID, denoted as ID2, and a third portion 156 with a thirdID, denoted as ID3. The first ID ID1 is larger than the third ID ID3.The second ID ID2 gradually slopes or tapers from the first ID ID1 tothe third ID ID 3. The opening 138 has a clearance of approximately thatof the third ID ID3. The opening 138 includes two parallel surfacesspaced apart to provide a clearance dimensioned to receive the shaft 6of the golf club 5. The two parallel surfaces track the curvature of thebody 132 from the beginning of the through hole 150 to the curvature ofthe exterior perimeter surface 142.

The internal seat 160 is shown to denote the upper end of the secondportion 154. However, as the handgrip diameter varies from one club toanother club, the seat may be further down the second portion 154 oranywhere in the through hole.

Returning again to FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C, in the exemplary embodiment, theattachment mechanism 110 is a U-shaped clip configured to attach to arim of a golf bag, as will be described in relation to FIG. 12. When theGCH device 100 is attached to a rim or other suitable location of a golfbag, the club holder 130 is configured to hold and retain a golf club(e.g., putter) within the body 132. In one exemplary embodiment, theclub holder 130 is positioned outside of the golf bag. Thus, the clubholder 130 suspends the putter or golf club 5 vertically and parallel toa longitudinal axis of the golf bag.

The U-shaped clip includes a top arch 112 terminating into a first leg114 and a second leg 116. The second leg 116 is essentially straight.The first leg 114 has a curved end 118 which curves in a directionopposite that of the second leg 116. A bottom end of the second leg 116has rounded edges 120. The curved end 118 of the first leg 114may-permit easier installation of the clip as the rim of the golf bag isreceived between the first leg 114 and the second leg 116.

The first leg 114 extends above the body 132 so that a front surface onthe first leg 114 is provided. This front surface is configured to havelogos and advertisements in graved, embossed, etched, painted, appliedor otherwise integrated with the front surface.

The GCH device 100 is configured to be attached to a belt, strap, band,pocket, fabric, plate or other thin structures which can slip throughthe first and second legs 114 and 116. If the GCH device 100 was clippedto a belt worn about the waist, the club seated in the club holder 130would hang down along a leg of the person wearing the belt.

FIG. 1E illustrates the cross-sectional view of the secure golf clubholder device of FIG. 1D with a golf club 5 being inserted through theopening 138 (FIG. 1D) of body 132 in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention. The through hole 150 and opening138 are configured to receive an portion of the shaft of the putter orgolf club 5 by moving the shaft through opening 138 toward theattachment mechanism 110.

The through hole 150 is sized to receive any portion of the shaft 6.During installation, the handgrip end of shaft 6 is slipped through theopening 138 while the handgrip 6 is kept above the top end of the body132. Once, the shaft 6 is fully received through the opening 138 and iswithin the though hole 150, the handgrip 8 can be released to slideunder the force of gravity into the internal seat 160.

Nonetheless, in lieu of gravity acting on the golf club 5 to seat thehandgrip 8, the user can direct the handgrip 8 into the seat once theshaft 6 has cleared the opening 138 and is fully in the through hole150.

The opening is sized to receive the first end (smaller diameter), otherreduced diameter or the handgrip end (larger diameter) of the shaft 6 ofthe golf club 5. Once the shaft 6 has cleared the opening 138, the golfclub 5 can slide or move under the force of gravity downward such thatthe handgrip 8 is seated within the body 132.

FIG. 1F illustrates the cross-sectional view of the secure golf clubholder device of FIG. 1D with the golf club 5 seated in the device inaccordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.After the putter or golf club 5 is inserted through opening 138, theputter or golf club 5 is then allowed to slide down into the seat 160 toengage. The putter or golf club 160 will not become unseated from theGCH device 100 until the putter or golf club 5 is lifted upward so thata reduced diameter of the shaft 6 can pass through the opening 138.

In FIG. 1F, the dashed line represent the hidden opening 138. A portionof the handgrip 8 of the golf club 5 is recessed or seated within theclub holder 130 and secured as the handgrip 8 has a larger diameter thanthe clearance of opening 138.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a golf hag 1202 with a secureGCH device 1200 attached thereto in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 1200 is essentiallythe same as the GCH device 100 with a U-shaped clip (e.g., attachmentmechanism 110). The golf bag 1202 has a top rim 1204 and handle 1206.Near the top rim 1204, the golf bag 1202 includes a plurality of snaps1208 spaced around the golf bag in proximity to the top rim 1104. Theplurality of snaps 1208 may be used to install a golf bag cover used toclose the opening into the golf bag 1202. Nonetheless, the golf bag mayinclude snaps at other locations. The GCH device 1200 is clip onto orover the top edge of the rim 1204 such that the club holder ispositioned outside of the golf bag 1202.

FIGS. 2A and 2C illustrate perspective and side views of another golfclub holder (GCH) device 200 in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 200 includes a clubholder 230 and attachment mechanism 210. The club holder 230 isconnected to or integrated with the attachment mechanism 210 via aconnection bridge 225. In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 230is essentially the same as the club holder 130 described in detailabove. Thus, no further description is necessary. The description belowwill focus on the details of the attachment mechanism 210.

FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the GCH device 200 alongthe plane 2B-2B of FIG. 2A. In FIGS. 2A and 2B, the attachment mechanism210 includes a connector plate 212 which is essentially straight. Anupper portion 214 of the connector plate 212 has wall 216 coupled to andintegrated therewith. The wall 216 is parallel to the upper portion 214and spaced therefrom to form a hollow passage 226 having aligned slots218 being elongated vertically. The slots 218 are configured to passtherethrough a strap, band, belt, etc., in a horizontal or first plane,as best seen in FIG. 2D. A bottom end of the connector plate 212 hasrounded edges 220.

The upper portion 214 is connected to and integrated with the wall 216via top and bottom spacer sections 222A and 222B. The top and bottomspacer sections 222A and 222B have aligned slots 224A and 224B,respectively, being vertically separated, as best seen in FIG. 2B. Theslots 224A and 224B are configured to feed or receive therethrough astrap, belt, band, etc. The slots 224A and 224B are open to the hollowpassage 226.

The upper portion 214 extends above the body 232 so that a front surfaceon the upper portion 214 is provided. This front surface is configuredto have logos and advertisements in graved, embossed, etched, painted,applied or otherwise integrated with the front surface.

The attachment mechanism 210 is a multi-directional band coupler whichincludes a first pair of aligned slots (e.g., slots 218) to receive isstrap or band in a horizontal direction or first direction. Themulti-directional coupler further includes a second pair of alignedslots (e.g., slots 224A and 224B) configured to receive a strap or band20 in the first direction or the second direction wherein the firstdirection and the second direction are perpendicular.

In FIG. 2B, the hatched section includes portions of the attachmentmechanism 210 and connection bridge 225. The through hole 250 extendsthrough the body 232 (FIG. 2A).

FIG. 2D illustrates the perspective view of the GCH device 200 of FIG.2A with a strap 20 inserted in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention. The attachment mechanism 210 isshown with a strap 20. The strap 20 has free ends 22A and 22B which areconfigured to be secured together with fastener members 40A and 40B,such as a hook and loop type fastening system. The fastener members 40Aand 40B may include a buckle type system, button, snap, Velcro, etc. Thestrap 20 may be a belt, strap, band, etc. configured to be secured tostructures or a person's body (e.g., wrist). The strap 20 may be loopedaround a belt or belt loop of the user. The strap 20 is shown slippedthrough the hollow passage 226 (FIG. 2A) via aligned slots 218. However,the strap 20 may be slipped through slots 224A and 224B.

The strap 20 can he placed vertically or horizontally so that theattachment mechanism 210 can be readily adaptable to a variety ofattachment structures. Attachment structures may include, withoutlimitation, belts, belt loops, wrists, golf bags, hooks, golf cart andpegs. The strap 20 can be used to hang from a variety of attachmentstructures the GCH device 200.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D illustrate perspective, side, front and topviews of still yet another secure GCH device 300 in accordance with someexemplary embodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 300includes a club holder 330 and attachment mechanism 310. In theexemplary embodiment, the attachment mechanism 310 is essentially thesame as the attachment mechanism 110 described in detail above. Thus, nofurther description is necessary. Nevertheless, other attachmentmechanisms described herein may be substituted.

The club holder 330 differs from club holder 130 in that the opening 338is angled with respect to a center longitudinal axis LA (FIG. 3B) of thethrough hole 350. The angled profile allows the shaft 6 (FIGS. 1E and1F) to be inserted at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinalaxis LA (FIG. 3B) of the through hole 350. During insertion of the club,the shaft 6 of club 5 (FIGS. 1E and 1F) enters the body 332 at an angle.As the shaft 6 clears the opening 338, the shaft is automaticallymanipulated to orient the longitudinal axis of the shaft to align withthe longitudinal axis LA of the through hole 350.

There are at least two angled opening configurations. In oneconfiguration, the opening is angled with respect to the longitudinalaxis LA of the through hole, but the channel of the opening (passage) isstraight toward the through hole 350. Inserting the club requires twomotions. The first motion is translation at an acute angle and thenrotation of the shaft to or toward a vertical orientation. The openingis straight as the acute angle of the opening with respect to thethrough hole 350 is substantially the same.

In another configuration, the opening is curved and angled. Withspecific reference to the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 3A-3F, theopening 338 has a curved and angled profile. The curved and angledprofile creates an opening 338 that at any given distance from thecenter (longitudinal axis LA) of the through hole 350, the opening 338makes a straight line at some acute angle. In other words, the acuteangle varies in a curved fashion. As the club moves further back in thebody 332, the angle changes but there is still a straight path forpassage or clearance of the shaft. Thus, motion of the shaft is blendedin two dimensions. As the shaft moves or slides through the angled andcurved profile of opening 338, the shaft, when moving, is bothtranslated backward toward the through hole 350 and manipulated to beoriented in or toward a vertically upright position at the end of theopening 338 and in the through hole 350.

As best seen in FIGS. 3A-3D, a first half 382A of the front of body 332is not symmetrical with a second half 382B of the front of body 332. Thecurvature of the first half 382A along the opening 338 has a firstcurvature and the curvature of the second half 382B along the opening338 has a second curvature, the first curvature and second curvaturetrack each other. The surfaces 384A and 384B indicate a spiraling,waving or snaking curvature of the passage or clearance of opening 338to translate the shaft toward the through hole 350 and vertically orientthe shaft toward the vertical plane so that a handgrip of the club canbe seated in internal seat 360.

The surface 384B toward the truncated upper portion 336A on the secondhalf 382B has a curvature which is flared outward so as to receive orslide the shaft into the opening 338. The surface 384A toward thetruncated bottom portion 336B has a curvature which is curved inwardtoward the through hole 350.

With reference also to FIG. 3E, a cross-sectional view of the secure GCHdevice 300 along the plane 3E-3E of FIG. 3C is shown. The curvature ofsurface 384A along the path of opening 338 is shown. The top portion 386(shown hatched) is a portion of the first half 382A. The U-shaped clipof the attachment mechanism 310 is shown hatched.

FIG. 3F illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure GCH device 300along the plane 3F-3F of FIG. 3C. The surface 384B along the path ofopening 338 is shown. The top element 388 (shown hatched) is a portionof the first half 382A. The top element 388 is that portion of the firsthalf 382A which is displaced from a mid-point of the body 332 along theplane 3F-3F of FIG. 3C. The U-shaped clip of the attachment mechanism310 is shown hatched.

FIG. 4A illustrates an exploded view of yet another GCH device 400 inaccordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. TheGCH device 400 includes a club holder 430 and attachment mechanism 410.In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 430 is essentially the sameas the club holder 330 described in detail above. Thus, no furtherdescription is necessary. As can be appreciated, the attachmentmechanism 410 may be used with any of the club holders described herein.

In FIG. 4A, the attachment mechanism 410 includes a connector plate 412which is essentially straight. An upper portion 414 of the connectorplate 412 has a snap element 418 on a backside of the connector plate412. The snap element 418 is configured to snap onto existing snaps onthe golf bag, such as those used to secure a golf bag cover, other snapsplaced at various locations on the golf bag, garments, or otherstructures with a suitable snap.

Referring also to FIGS. 4B and 4C, front and rear views of the GCHholder device 400 are shown. A back surface 416 of the connector plate412 has a recess 411 configured to receive, support, affix or haveintegrated therewith a snap element connector 422. The snap element 418includes a connector 424 (FIG. 4A) to connect with snap elementconnector 422. As be seen in FIG. 4C, the club holder 430 bellows outfrom the sides defined by the connector plate 412. A logo oradvertisement can be placed or integrated on the front surface of theupper portion 414.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a golf bag 1102 with a secureGCH device 1100 attached thereto in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 1100 is essentiallythe same as the GCH device 400 with a snap element (e.g., snap element418). The golf bag 1102 has a top rim 1104 and handle 1106. Near the toprim 1104, the golf bag 1102 includes a plurality of snaps 1108 spacedaround the golf bag in proximity to the top rim 1104. The plurality ofsnaps 1108 may be used to install a golf bag cover used to close theopening into the golf bag 1102. Nonetheless, the golf bag may includesnaps at other locations.

The snap element (e.g., snap element 418) of the GCH device 400 wouldsnap on or snap to at respective one snap of the plurality of snaps1108.

FIG. 5A illustrates perspective view of a golf club holder (GCH) system500 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention. The GCH system 500 includes a GCH device 501 and club shaftadaptor 570. The GCH device 501 includes a club holder 530 andattachment mechanism 510. In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder530 is essentially the same as the club holder 330 described in detailabove. However, the club holder 530 may be configured and arranged asany of the other club holders described herein.

Referring also to FIG. 5B, a cross-sectional view of the GCH device 501along the plane 5B-5B of FIG. 5A is shown. The quasi-spherically shapedof the body 532 includes a truncated upper portion 536A and a truncatedbottom portion 536B. The body 532 has a through hole 550 formed throughthe truncated upper portion 536A down to and through the truncatedbottom portion 536B. The truncated upper portion 536A includes anarrower rim (top edge of body 532) as compared to that of body 132(FIG. 1A).

Furthermore, a front of the body 532 has an opening 538 configured toreceive a shaft 6 of a golf club 5 (FIGS. 1E and 1F) therethrough. Thebody 532 includes an internal seat 560 to support within the body 532, aportion of a handgrip 8 of the golf club 5 (FIG. 1F).

The through hole 550 includes an inner diameter (ID) which varies. Atthe truncated upper portion 536A, the ID is larger than the ID nearestto the truncated bottom portion 536B. The through hole 550 of the body532 has a first portion 552 with a first ID, denoted as ID11, a secondportion 554 with a varying second ID, denoted as ID12, and a thirdportion 556 with a third ID, denoted as ID13. The first ID ID11 islarger than the third ID ID13. The second ID ID12 gradually slopes ortapers from the first ID ID11 to the third ID ID13. The opening 538 hasa clearance of approximately that of the third ID ID13.

In the exemplary embodiment, the length of the third portion 556 islonger in length than the length of the third portion 156 of the deviceof FIG. 1D. Additionally, the first portion 552 has a shorter lengththan the length of the first portion 152 of FIG. 1D. The second portion554 has a longer length then the length of the second portion 154 ofFIG. 1D.

The narrower rim is achieved by increasing the first ID ID11 compared tothe first ID ID1 of FIG. 1D. The first ID ID11 can be reduced by theclub shaft adaptor 570. The club shaft adaptor 570 may be interchangedwith different size club shaft adaptors. The club shaft adaptor 570reduces the through hole 550 for different sized clubs.

The adaptor 570 may be used with other GCH devices described herein. Theadaptor 570 may be used to reduce the diameter of the through hole ofany GCH device so as to provide a better handgrip fit or to hold thehandgrip of a putter with a broom stick length above the club holder orbody. In this embodiment, the putter with a broom stick length would notdrag the ground when supported in the GCH device with an adaptor (e.g,adaptor 570).

In another embodiment, the adaptor may be configured to be rotatedwithin the body so that the opening is closed.

Referring also to FIG. 5C, a cross-sectional view of the secure GCHsystem 500 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention is shown. As best seen in FIGS. 5A and 5C, the club shaftadaptor 570 includes a cup 572 configured to be received within the body532. The cup 572 is configured to track contours of the through hole550. More specifically, the cup 572 is configured to track the diameterand length of the first portion 552 with the first ID ID11; the secondportion 554 with the varying second ID ID12; and the third portion 556with the third ID ID13. Thus, the cup 572 has a first portion 574configured to track the first portion 552 of the through hole 550; asecond portion 576 configured to track the second portion 554 of thethrough hole 550; and a third portion 578 configured to track the thirdportion 556 of the through hole 550.

The club shaft adaptor 570 further includes a pair of flanges 580configured to track the contour of the opening 538. The pair of flanges580 line or track the opening 538 and reduces the opening 538 into thethrough hole 550 and the cup 572. The flanges 580 track the contour ofthe front curvature of the body 532.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate perspective views of a GCH 630 in an openstate and closed state, respectively, in accordance with some exemplaryembodiments of the present invention. The golf club holder 630 may beused with any of the attachment mechanisms 110, 210 and 410, describedabove. The GCH 630 has a manual locking mechanism. In the exemplaryembodiment, the golf club holder 630 may be used and configured withoutan attachment mechanism, as shown. If the attachment mechanism isomitted, the rear side of the golf club holder 630 can be rounded totrack a spherical shape instead of being truncated when integrated witha connection bridge.

Referring also to FIG. 6C, a cross-sectional view of the secure golfclub holder along the plane 6B-6B of FIG. 6A is shown. The golf clubholder 630 includes a body 632 which is quasi-spherically shaped with atruncated upper portion 636A and a truncated bottom portion 636B.

The body 632 has a through hole 650 formed through the truncated upperportion 636A down to and through the truncated bottom portion 636B. Thebody 632 includes an internal seat 660 to support within the body 632, aportion of a handgrip of the golf club. The inner diameter (ID) of thethrough hole 630 varies, such as previously described in relation to thebody 132. Thus no further description is necessary.

The exterior perimeter surface 642 of the body 632 has indentations ordimples 634 so that the golf club holder 630 simulates a golf ball. Inthe exemplary embodiment, the golf club holder 630 can be handheld andcradled in the palm of a golfer's hand in a manner a golf ball would beheld.

The quasi-spherical shape of the golf club holder 630 without anattachment mechanism may be more comfortable to hold in a user's handswhen walking or carrying the club. The larger diameter of the golf clubholder 630 in comparison with the handgrip 8 (FIGS. 1E and 1F) may alsoallow the golf club holder 630 to be suspended from structuresconfigured to cradle the golf club holder 630 and still allow the club 5to be hung downward.

In the exemplary embodiment, when the GCH 630 is held in a hand of agolfer, the club holder 630 is configured to hold and retain a golf club(e.g., putter) within the body 632. More specifically, a portion of thehandgrip of the golf club is recessed or seated within the club holder630.

In another embodiment, the club holder 630 can be used to lay the clubdown on the ground. The larger diameter of the body 632 would slightlyraised the handgrip 8 (FIGS. 1E and 1F) above the ground.

In the exemplary embodiment, the body 632 is divided into two portionswhich include a top rotatable section 670 and a bottom section 672. Thebottom section 672 includes neck 674 to rotatably connect to the toprotatable section 670 via an upper lip 674A protruding from a top edgeof the neck 674. Furthermore, the front of the bottom section 672 has anopening 638 configured to receive a shaft of a golf club therethrough.Likewise, the front of the top section 670 has an opening 638Aconfigured to receive the shaft of the golf club therethrough. Theclearance of the opening 638A tracks the clearance of the opening 638.

Top rotatable section 670 includes a groove 676 contoured to receivetherein the upper lip 674A. An interior side of the top rotatablesection 670 is configured to mate with an exterior side of the neck 674.The top rotatable section 670 rotates from an open states (FIG. 6A) to aclosed state (FIG. 6B). When the top rotatable section 670 rotates, theopening 638A moves in relation to the opening 638 to close the openings(and especially opening 638).

In the exemplary embodiment, the top rotatable section 670 and thebottom section 672 are configured to be snapped together.

In the exemplary embodiment, a snap-on connector is defined by the toprotatable section 670 includes a circumferential groove to receive thelip 674A. Nevertheless, other snap-on connector configurations may beused. Other connectors that provide for rotation may be substituted. Thetop rotatable section 670 serves as a locking mechanism for opening 638to prevent the dislodgement of the putter or golf club being supportedby the GCH 630. In an exemplary embodiment, the top rotatable section670 may be removable.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate perspective and top views of yet anothersecure GCH device 700 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments ofthe present invention. The GCH 700 is similar in design as GCH device100 and includes a club holder 730 and an attachment mechanism 710. Theattachment mechanism 710 includes a U-shaped clip, as previouslydescribed in relation to FIG. 1A. The GCH device 700 includes aplurality of ridges or ribs 701 within an interior of the body 732 ofthe GCH 700. The ridges 701 are spaced equidistantly from the other(adjacent) around the inner circumference of the through hole 750 of thebody 732. The ridges or ribs 701 are elongated and may reduce movementor slippage when the handgrip (rubber or leather) is recessed in seat760 of the GCH device 700. The ridges or ribs 701 taper or narrow inproximity to the bottom end of the through hole 750.

The diameters of the through hole 750 and opening 738 may be the same asany of the pervious through holes described above. The ridges or ribs701 are separated by elongated grooves or recesses 703.

As can be appreciated, the GCH device 700 may also be modified toinclude any one of the attachment mechanisms described herein.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of yet another secure GCH device800 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention. The GCH device 800 includes an attachment mechanism 810 andclub holder 830. The body 832 is integrated with the attachmentmechanism 810 via a connection bridge 825. The body 832 has a smoothexterior perimeter surface 842. The attachment mechanism 810 is similarto the attachment mechanism 110 previously described. Additionally, theclub holder 830 is similar to the club holder 130 except that theexterior perimeter surface 842 is smooth.

In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 830 may be contoured toresemble a bowl of a tobacco pipe. The exterior perimeter surface 842may be smooth or may be textured to resemble a bowl of a tobacco pipe.The through hole 850 resembles the chamber of the bowl. The opening 838in the body 832 provides access into the bowl/chamber. The attachmentmechanism 810 is configured to have a logo or advertisement integratedor applied to the front surface.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrates perspective and top views of yet anothersecure GCH device 900 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments ofthe present invention. The GCH device 900 includes an attachmentmechanism 910 configured to attach to a golf club bag, person, or otherstructures. The GCH device 900 further includes at least one club holder930A and 930B coupled to or integrated with the attachment mechanism910. The attachment mechanism 910 is a U-shaped clip similar to theattachment mechanism 110 previously described. However, other attachmentmechanisms may be substituted. Each club holders 930A and 930B issimilar to the club holder 130 previously described. However, other clubholder designs may be substituted.

In the exemplary embodiment, there are two club holders 930A and 930B inside by side relation. Each club holder 930A and 930B includes a body932A and 932B, respectively, configured to simulate a golf ball. Eachbody 932A and 932B is quasi-spherically shaped structure with aplurality of indentions or dimples formed in the exterior perimetersurface of the body 932A and 932B.

A rear portion of the quasi-spherically shaped structure does not tracka generally spherical shape as a portion of the rear side of thespherical structure is integrated with a connection bridge 925 so as tointegrate the bodies 932A and 932B with the attachment mechanism 910.The quasi-spherically shaped structure also truncates a side of thebodies 932A and 932B, as such bodies are joined or integrated together.The connection bridge 925 has a triangular-shaped hole formed therein.

Each body 932A and 932B has a through hole 950A and 950B, respectively,formed therethrough. Furthermore, a front of each body 932A and 932B hasan opening 938A and 938B, respectively. Each opening 938A and 938B isconfigured to receive a different shaft of a different golf club.Opening 938A is offset from opening 938B such that so that each body932A and 932B are a separate path though the opening 938A or 938B,respectively, and into the through hole 950A and 950B, respectively. Thepath through each opening 938A and 938B is at an angle with respect tothe attachment mechanism 910.

Each body 932A and 932B includes an internal seat 160 to support withinthe body each body 932A or 932B, a portion of a handgrip of a golf club.

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate top and rear views of yet another secureGCH device 1000 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention. The GCH device 1000 includes a club holder 1030without an attachment mechanism. In the exemplary embodiment, the clubholder 1030 includes a body 1032 configured to simulate a golf ball. Thebody 1032 is quasi-spherically shaped structure with a plurality ofindentions or dimples 1034 formed in the exterior perimeter surface ofthe body 1032.

The quasi-spherically shaped of the body 1032 includes a sphericalstructure having a truncated upper portion 1036A and a truncated bottomportion 1036B. Additionally, a rear portion of the spherical structuredoes not track a generally spherical shape as a portion of the rear sideof the spherical structure is truncated to form a flat surface 1014 forplacement of a logo or advertisement.

The body 1032 includes a through hole 1050 extending through thetruncated upper portion 1036A down to and through the truncated bottomportion 1036B. Additionally, the body 1032 has an opening 1038 formedtherein for inserting a shaft of a golf club through the body 1032 sothat a handgrip can be seated in seat 1060.

FIG. 13A illustrates a perspective view of a GCH device 1300, with analternate embodiment of the attachment mechanism 1310 (with a portionremoved) in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.FIG. 13B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the GCH device 1300of FIG. 13A with a band, belt or strap 60 installed in the attachmentmechanism 1310 in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention. The GCH device 1300 includes a club holder 1330 and anattachment mechanism 1310. The club holder 1330 is connected to orintegrated with the attachment mechanism 1310 via a connection bridge.In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 1330 is essentially thesame as the club holder 1330 described in detail above in relation toFIG. 8. However, club holder 1330 may be substituted with any of theother club holder designs previously described. Thus, no furtherdescription is necessary. The description below will focus on thedetails of the attachment mechanism 1310.

The attachment mechanism 1310 is multi-mode arrangement with a U-shapedclip for clipping on to a bag, belt, structures; and elongated slots forattachment of band, belt or strap 60. The U-shaped clip includes a toparch 1312 terminating into a first leg 1314 and a second leg 1316. Thesecond leg 1316 is essentially straight. The first leg 1314 has a curvedend 1318 which curves in a direction opposite that of the second leg1316. A bottom end of the second leg 1316 has rounded edges. The curvedend 1318 of the first leg 1314 may-permit easier installation of theclip as the rim of the golf bag is received between the first leg 1314and the second leg 1316.

The top arch 1312 has a first elongated slot 1324A. The first leg 1314has a second elongated slot 1324B. The elongation of the first andsecond slots 1324A and 1324B are in a first direction. The first andsecond slots 1324A and 1324B are configured to receive a band, belt orstrap 60 therethrough. The ends of the band, belt or strap 60 includesfasteners 65A, 65B such as Velcro. However, other fasteners such assnaps, buttons, etc. may be used.

In operation, the user may selective employ any mode of attachment. Afirst mode of attachment may use the U-shaped clip for a clip-onattachment mode. A second mode of attachment may selective use a band,belt, or strap 60 with fasteners 65A, 65B to strap or hang the GCHdevice 1300 from structures, belt, wrist, etc.

FIG. 14A illustrates a front cross section view of a GCH device 1400,with an alternate embodiment of an attachment mechanism 1410 and with astrap 70 installed, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention. FIG. 14B illustrates a partial rear view of the attachmentmechanism 1410 in accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 14A. The GCHdevice 1400 includes a club holder 1430 and an attachment mechanism1410. The club holder 1430 is connected to or integrated with theattachment mechanism 1410 via a connection bridge. The club holder 1430may be any one of the other club holder designs previously described.Thus, no further description is necessary. The description below willfocus on the details of the attachment mechanism 1410.

The attachment mechanism 1410 is multi-mode arrangement with a U-shapedclip for clipping on to a bag, belt, structures; a first set ofelongated slots for attaching a band, belt or strap in a firstdirection; and a second set of elongated slots for attaching the band,belt or step in a second direction (the second direction being differentfrom the first direction). The U-shaped clip includes a top arch 1412terminating into a first leg 1414 and a second leg 1316. The second leg1316 is essentially straight.

The top arch 1412 has a first elongated slot 1424A. The first leg 1414has a second elongated slot 1424B. The elongation of the first andsecond slots 1424A and 1424B are oriented in a first direction. Thefirst and second slots 1424A and 1424B are configured to receive a band,belt or strap 70 (shown in phantom in FIG. 14A) therethrough. The endsof the band, belt or strap 70 includes fasteners 75A, 75B such asVelcro. However, other fasteners such as snaps, buttons, etc. may beused.

The first leg 1414 further includes third and fourth elongated slots1426A and 1426B (shown in phantom in FIG. 14A) in spaced and parallelarrangement. The direction of elongation of the third and fourthelongated slots 1426A and 1426B is different from the direction ofelongation of the first and second slots 1424A and 1424B. In theexemplary embodiment, the direction of elongation of first and secondslots 1424A and 1424B is perpendicular to the direction of elongation ofthe third and fourth elongated slots 1426A and 1426B.

In operation, the user may selective employ any mode of attachment. Afirst mode of attachment may use the U-shaped clip for a clip-onattachment mode. A second mode of attachment may selective use a band,belt or strap 70 with fasteners 75A, 75B feed through the first andsecond elongated slots 1424A and 1424B to strap or hang the GCH device1400 from structures, belt, wrist, etc. A third mode of attachment mayselective use a band, belt or strap 70 with fasteners 75A, 75B feedthrough the third and fourth elongated slots 1426A and 1426B to strap orhang the GCH device 1400 from structures, belt, wrist, etc.

FIG. 15 illustrates a front cross-sectional view of yet another GCHdevice 1500 in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention. In the embodiments of the club holder previously described,the club holder has an internal seat. In the embodiment of FIG. 15, theclub holder 1530 has a through hole 1550 with varying diameters and atleast one internal seat 1560A and 1560B. In the exemplary embodiment,only two internal seats are shown. However, one or more seats may beprovided. The seats serve to cradle the handgrip. The varying diametersmay help to each handgrip of varying sizes. The attachment mechanism1510 is attached to the club holder 1530. The front surface of theattachment mechanism 1510 is suitable for engraving, painting, applyingor affixing a Logo, advertisement, Trade name, Trademark or other decalsthereto.

The GCH devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1300,1400 and 1500 may be made of natural material, man-made material,recycled material or a combination of natural, man-made or recycledmaterials. In one embodiment, the GCH device, systems or golf clubholders described herein is made of “green” (environmentally friendly)materials.

In an exemplary embodiment, the GCH devices, systems and golf clubholders are lightweight and made of molded plastic. The GCH devices,system and golf club holders described herein may be made of a varietyof colors.

In an exemplary embodiment, the GCH devices, systems and golf clubholders or portions thereof may be coated with a coating to resemble orsimulate a golf ball texture or smoothness.

Accordingly, the GCH devices and systems of the present inventionprovide a club holder for attachment to the rim of a golf bag or otherstructures for separately retaining a putter or golf club to make suchputter or club readily obtainable or easily accessible.

Accordingly, the GCH devices and systems of the present inventionprovide a club holder for attachment to the rim of a golf bag or otherstructures for separately retaining a putter or golf club on the outsideof the golf bag or along side of a leg of a user with the handgripupright and immediately accessible for lifting directly from theholder's internal seat.

Accordingly, the GCH devices and systems of the present inventionprovide a club holder that securely holds a club such as with arotatable locking mechanism or a self-locking angled opening.

As can be appreciated, any of the attachment mechanisms may beinterchanged with another attachment mechanism described herein or otherquick-release attachment mechanisms.

Furthermore, any one of the club holders described herein may beintegrated with a different attachment mechanism or other quick-releaseattachment mechanism.

The device may be configured to hold and cradle an umbrella so that thehandle of the umbrella remains dry.

The device may be configured to hold and cradle in the seat(s) one ormore golf balls.

The device may be configured to hold and cradle in the seat many otherobjects, tools, supplies, and coins for use by the golfer.

The device may be configured to hold and cradle in the seat a beveragecontainer.

The device is described such that the handgrip is recessed in the seat.Thus, the club head is oriented vertically below the handgrip with thehandgrip oriented vertically upright. However, the device can supportthe club head vertically upright with the handgrip vertically below theclub head. In this embodiment, the manual locking mechanism would bebeneficial to secure the club within the body.

The spherical dimension or diameter of the club holder may vary. Thespherical diameter may closely track the size of a golf ball. The widthof the attachment mechanism may be bigger than the diameter of the clubholder such that from a rear view, the club holder would not be seen.

While the present invention has been described with respect to variousfeatures, aspects, and embodiments, those skilled and unskilled in theart will recognize the invention is not so limited. Other variations,modifications, and alternative embodiments may be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the present invention.

1. A golf club holder device comprising: a body having a top-to-bottomthrough-hole defined within, the through-hole comprising first andsecond funnel-shaped seats formed by an interior wall of thethrough-hole, the first seat being above the second seat when the golfclub holder device is in an upright orientation, the first seat having alarger diameter than the second seat, the through-hole being configuredto recess a portion of a handgrip of a golf club within the body whilesuspending a remaining length of the golf club from the body, thedifferent diameters of the first and second seats being configured toreceive different diameter handgrips; and a top-to-bottom opening formedin a front of the body, the opening configured to receive a diameter ofa shaft of a golf club therethrough.
 2. The device of claim 1, furthercomprising: an attachment mechanism integrated with a rear side of thebody and configured to attach the device to a golf bag, belt, body part,or golf cart.
 3. The device of claim 2, wherein the attachment mechanismcomprises one of (i) a clip, (ii) a snap, or (iii) one or more slots forattachment of a band or strap.
 4. The device of claim 1, wherein thethrough-hole further comprises a cylindrical portion between the firstand second seats.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the through-holefurther comprises a cylindrical portion between the first seat and a topof the body.
 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the through-hole furthercomprises a cylindrical portion between the second seat and a bottom ofthe body.
 7. The device of claim 1, wherein the through-hole furthercomprises a third seat below the second seat and having a smallerdiameter than the second seat.
 8. The device of claim 7, wherein thethrough-hole further comprises a cylindrical portion between the secondand third seats.
 9. The device of claim 7, wherein the through-holefurther comprises a cylindrical portion between the third seat and abottom of the body.
 10. A method for holding a golf club comprising: (a)attaching a golf club holder device to a golf bag, belt, body part, orgolf cart, the golf club holder device comprising: a body having atop-to-bottom through-hole defined within, the through-hole comprisingfirst and second funnel-shaped seats formed by an interior wall of thethrough-hole, the first seat being above the second seat when the golfclub holder device is in an upright orientation, the first seat having alarger diameter than the second seat, the through-hole being configuredto recess a portion of a handgrip of a golf club within the body whilesuspending a remaining length of the golf club from the body, thedifferent diameters of the first and second seats being configured toreceive different diameter handgrips; and a top-to-bottom opening formedin a front of the body, the opening configured to receive a diameter ofa shaft of a golf club therethrough; (b) inserting the shaft of the golfclub through the top-to-bottom opening formed in a front of the body;and (c) lowering the golf club such that a portion of the handgrip ofthe golf club is supported by at least one of the first and second seatswhile the remaining length of the golf club is suspended from the body.11. The method of claim 10, wherein the golf club holder device furthercomprises: an attachment mechanism integrated with a rear side of thebody and configured to attach the device to a golf bag, belt, body part,or golf cart.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the attachmentmechanism comprises one of (i) a clip, (ii) a snap, or (iii) one or moreslots for attachment of a band or strap.
 13. The method of claim 10,wherein the through-hole further comprises a cylindrical portion betweenthe first and second seats.
 14. The method of claim 10, wherein thethrough-hole further comprises a cylindrical portion between the firstseat and a top of the body.
 15. The method of claim 10, wherein thethrough-hole further comprises a cylindrical portion between the secondseat and a bottom of the body.
 16. The method of claim 10, wherein thethrough-hole further comprises a third seat below the second seat andhaving a smaller diameter than the second seat.
 17. The method of claim16, wherein the through-hole further comprises a cylindrical portionbetween the second and third seats.
 18. The method of claim 16, whereinthe through-hole further comprises a cylindrical portion between thethird seat and a bottom of the body.